There are 3 places left so please get in touch with the SkillsActive Northern Ireland manager Siobhan Weir (s.weir@skillsactive.com) or phone Siobhan on 07841323512

SkillsActive has launched a review of the National Occupational Standards (NOS) for the ‘Outdoor Programmes’ area and invites you to join them at a focus group meeting where you will have the opportunity to shape and influence their future development.

In the outdoors adventure sector, we currently have 4 main NOS areas: Outdoor Programmes, Activity Leadership, Expedition Management and Leadership and Outdoors Senior Roles. The ‘Outdoor Programmes’ set of NOS was first developed in 2006, and relates to roles at Level 3 – that is typically instructors/leaders with at least a few years experience, who are at the first stage of operating independently, and possibly supervising/supporting the work of some less experienced colleagues. The standards cover outdoor recreation, outdoor education & development training. It is now time to review the standards to take into account and developments in the sector, organisations and the job roles & functions covered by these industry standards.

What are National Occupational Standards (NOS)? NOS define the skills and knowledge required to work in particular occupations and exist for almost every occupation in UK. NOS are developed by employers and related stakeholders through Sector Skills Councils on a UK-wide basis. They inform the development of occupational and vocational qualifications. These qualifications must be mapped against the relevant NOS before they can be accredited on the UK qualifications framework and publically funded. NOS can also be used as the basis for a wide range of workforce development topics such as job descriptions, training and person specifications and Continued Professional Development programmes

Your Chance to Contribute: You are invited to attend the Northern Ireland focus group meeting on Friday 11 October. The meeting will provide you with an opportunity to contribute to the review process. In addition, there will be an opportunity to have a tour of Todd’s Leap and experience one of their latest activities including the Gyroscope and the Drop Zone. A hearty Clubhouse lunch and networking opportunities also included.

Who should attend? Employers and managers involved in the employment or development of outdoor adventure personnel. Peter Thompson, SkillsActive’s Outdoors sector lead, who managed the original standards development and who is leading the current review, will facilitate the meeting.